durch
through (spatial movement) · by means of, via · because of, due to · finished, done (in phrases like 'durch sein')
Durch means 'through' in English. It is used to describe movement through a space, a means or cause, or completion of an action. Germans also use it in many fixed phrases where English would use different words.
What durch means
- through (spatial movement) — when moving from one side to the other of something
- by means of, via — when indicating the method or agent
- because of, due to — when indicating a cause
- finished, done (in phrases like 'durch sein') — when used with 'sein' to mean completed
Example sentences
- Wir gehen durch den Park.We are walking through the park.
- Ich habe es durch einen Freund erfahren.I found out through a friend.
- Durch den Regen wurde alles nass.Because of the rain, everything got wet.
- Bist du mit der Arbeit durch?Are you done with the work?
Grammar
| Case | Accusative |
|---|---|
| Contraction | durchs = durch das |
Always takes the accusative case, even when expressing location.
Common phrases
- durchhaltento hold on, persevere
- durchziehento pull through, carry out
- durch seinto be done, finished
- durch und durchthrough and through, completely
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often use 'durch' with the dative case because it answers 'where?', but it always takes the accusative.
Don’t confuse it with
- über — Über means 'over' or 'above', while durch means 'through'.
Questions learners ask
What case does 'durch' take?
Durch always takes the accusative case.
What does 'durch sein' mean?
It means to be finished or done with something, or to have passed through something.
How do you say 'through the window' in German?
You say 'durch das Fenster' or the contraction 'durchs Fenster'.